California Bills Aid Victims of Human Trafficking

According one bill, California taxpayers can now contribute to community-based organizations that protect sexually exploited minors on their personal state income tax forms. Another bill tightens state law language concerning child prostitution so that it conforms with federal law in not requiring proof of force or coercion when a trafficking victim is younger than 18.

These recent bills follow the one signed in June that boosted fines against “johns” who pay for sex with minors and required that the money be directed to groups providing therapy, housing, shelter, and education to child victims of sex trafficking.

California’s efforts serve as a model for other states as they further engage in the battle against human trafficking.